DESCRIPTION Ornamental, beautiful and leafy, Rosette plants like the Amazon
Sword have very short (almost unnoticeable) stem axes, with the
leaf stalks uniting at the base of the plant. Rosette plants can be
placed in aquariums alone or in groups and require moderate care to
ensure healthy growth. Rosettes thrive in soft, mildly acidic
water.
- Aquatic
- Maximum height: 20 inches
- Short-stemmed with pale- to dark-green leaves
- Tank placement: Background
- Water temperature: 72-78 degrees F
- Ideal aquarium size: Large
- Can grow fully or partially submersed
Note: Plant availability is seasonal. State and local
regulations may vary. Pricing may vary by store location. PetSmart
stores cannot match the price above for this item. Ask a store
associate for details.
Things to remember:
Water temperature:
Aquatic plants require a tropical community aquarium with water temperatures
ranging between 72-78 degrees F (22-26 degrees C). Use an aquarium
heater to maintain water temperature.
Adding plants:
Whether you're just starting your aquarium or introducing new
plants into your tank, make sure to add only one or two plants at a
time.
Lighting:
Most tropical plants require sunlight each day, year round. The
duration and consistency are essential for plants to thrive.
Natural aquariums must be equipped with the means to provide 12
hours of simulated sunlight each day.
Plant fertilizer:
Fertilizer should only be added according to the dosage
instructions on the label, and only when needed (as in the case of
a water change). Plants will grow best if fertilized moderately and
regularly after water changes rather than given larger quantities
of fertilizer on a less-regular basis.
Fish and plants:
Small schooling fish are highly recommended for a natural planted
aquarium; larger fish often uproot plants. The adult size and
eating habitats of a fish should always be taken into
consideration.
Water changes:
Test water weekly to assess water quality. It is recommended that
10% of your aquarium water be changed per week. At the very least,
25% of your aquarium water should be changed per month. For optimal
health, regular water changes not only prevent the undesirable
accumulation of excess nutrients, but also remove excess nitrates
and waste products of the fish and plants.
Aquarium placement:
Place your aquarium in a low-traffic area, away from direct
sunlight and drafts.
Planting your natural aquarium:
Foreground plants: Usually stay very short and help fill in the
front part of the aquarium.
Middle ground plants: These plants grow anywhere form 4-10
inches tall.
Background plants: These are the fastest-growing and tallest
plants.
Things to watchfor:
- Poor growth
- Brown spots on leaves
- Plants appear weak, pale green to yellow, stems have few
leaves
- Plants cease to grow and die off
- Stem plants have long internodes and small leaves
If you notice any of the signs described above, check your
aquarium water quality and consult an in-store Aquatics
Specialist.